Do I need a new chain?

[outasight20]

2005 with 20K miles on the stock chain and rear sprocket. Front sprocket is a new 17T that I installed less than 1000 miles ago.

Recently, I have noticed a slight knocking sound when accelerating in 1st gear at low speeds. I checked the tension in my chain all around and it is not even, some spots have 2" of slack and some spots are tighter, closer to 1" of slack.

Is it time for a new chain and rear sprocket?

Or is the knocking coming from something else.

Oh yeah, I bought the bike with 13K miles on it and have since maintained and lubed the chain on a regular basis. I do launch hard often and pull the occasional wheelie.

 

[Red Wazp]

You may be due for new chain and sprocket. Another way to check the chain for wear is to pull on the links at the half way around point on the rear sprocket. If you can pull the chain much more than a 1/4 inch you may be ready to replace it.

 

[TownsendsFJR1300]

With the tightness between 1-2" variance, and 20,000 miles, your due. And yes, the chain will make some noise and you can usually feel it as well...

BTW, I bought my bike used from a friend (his son, first time rider) who didn't lube the chain the first 4500 miles of its life. Needless to say, the front sprocket was badly worn, made some noticable noise, the chain had some taught spots (not nearly as bad as yours) at 12,000 miles. I began maintainance when I bought the bike but the damage was already done (in the first 4500 miles).

A new DID X-ring chain and sprockets solved the problem. Nice and quiet now, NO taught spots either..

 

[outasight20]

Thanks for the replies guys. Ordered a new Volar gold o-ring chain and JT rear sprocket. The rear sprocket doesn't look worn too badly, but I figured I might as well replace it while I'm doing the chain.

 

[Hellgate]

Yes it best to replace the chain and sprockets together, so they can wear in together.

If the JT rear sprocket aluminum? If so keep an eye on it, aluminum wears very quickly.

Personally I like SuperSprox as you get the best of both worlds, lightweight, and long wearing.

 

[outasight20]

Yes it best to replace the chain and sprockets together, so they can wear in together.

If the JT rear sprocket aluminum? If so keep an eye on it, aluminum wears very quickly.

Personally I like SuperSprox as you get the best of both worlds, lightweight, and long wearing.

Nope, I got steel. I'm not too concerned about performance, more about saving money. I paid $40 shipped for the sprocket and $65 shipped for the chain.

 

[njbill]

Did you install the 17 tooth for increased mpg? If yes, were you pleased?

 

[outasight20]

I installed the 17T sprocket because it gives better mileage, lower rpm's on the highway, and also because I can now hit 60 MPH (actual speed) in first gear. I like the feel of the bike now also, feels like it has longer legs so to say. Acceleration doesn't feel any less thrilling.

As for mileage, I got 55 MPG on a recent trip to NH. Mostly highway but plenty of full power acceleration as well. I now average about 45-50 MPG riding normally (50% highway/50% city)

An update on the chain, I installed a new EK X-ring chain and JT rear sprocket. I can't believe how much quieter and smoother everything is running now. Feels like a new bike.